Has the Text of Scripture Changed Since Its First Writing?

One of the most frequently debated topics regarding the Bible is whether the text has changed significantly since its original writing. The Bible, as we know it, is filled with stories written centuries or even millennia after the events they describe. These stories are often seen as mythological and comic book-like in nature due to the inclusion of divine entities and impossible miracles.

The Bible: A Book of Myths?

Scholars generally agree that the Bible is a compilation of ancient myths and stories. Key figures such as Abraham, Moses, and Jesus are central to these narratives, but the question remains: how much of the current text reflects the original stories?

Unfortunately, the original manuscripts of the Bible are no longer in existence. What we have are copies of copies, with the earliest dated copies being closer to 200 years after the original writings. Genesis, for example, is generally accepted as having been written between the 6th and 4th centuries BC, and Exodus is thought to have been written in the 5th or 4th centuries BC. The stories of Jesus are often attributed to several decades later. These late dates raise questions about the authenticity and changes that may have occurred over time.

Given the lack of original documents, we must rely on the number and spread of existing copies to make educated guesses about any potential changes. Based on these, scholars believe that significant changes are unlikely. However, there are some known discrepancies and additions that have sparked considerable debate.

The End of Mark's Gospel: A Significant Change?

One of the most discussed changes is the end of Mark's Gospel. The earliest manuscripts do not include the final few verses, which narrate Jesus' resurrection and his meeting with the disciples. Instead, they end with Mary and the other women finding the empty tomb and fleeing in fear. This inconsistency has led scholars and historians to debate whether these verses were added later or if they were part of the original text.

It is important to note that while it is not a 100% guarantee, the majority of scholars believe that these verses were a later addition. However, the exact timing and intention behind this addition remain uncertain. Most modern translations include notes on these differences and provide details of possible changes. For more in-depth information on the reasons behind these choices, one would need to consult a good Bible commentary.

The Authenticity of Jesus' Words

When it comes to the words of Jesus, the situation is even more complex. The New Testament is composed of four books, each written by different authors and based on their recollections of Jesus' teachings. These accounts are further clouded by the fact that none of the original authors actually wrote them; their accounts were compiled and edited over time.

Moreover, the language in which Jesus likely spoke, Aramaic, has left no direct evidence of Jesus' exact words. This means that many of the translated versions of the Bible include words and phrases that do not exist in Aramaic. How Jesus expressed these in Aramaic and how they were translated into Greek and English is a matter of speculation.

In conclusion, while the core narrative of the Bible remains largely intact, there are significant questions about the authenticity of the text and its evolution over time. The modern reader must approach the Bible with a critical and analytical mindset, recognizing the potential for changes and additions, and seeking out scholarly resources to deepen their understanding.